# Donny

/ˈdɑni/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/donny
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a person who is very good at something or acts like a leader in their group. It is a very casual word used among friends.

For teachers: a person of high status, skill, or influence within a specific social circle or field. Primarily used in British English slang to denote a respected figure.

## Examples

- He is a real donny on the football pitch.
- Everyone in the neighborhood knows him because he is the local donny who helps organize the youth events.
- While he might seem unassuming to outsiders, within the local music scene he is regarded as a donny whose approval can launch a newcomer's career.

## Usage notes

- Primarily used in multicultural London English (MLE) and related British dialects.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.